Intelligent electrical devices (IEDs), such as SIPROTEC protective devices or interoperable third-party devices, are used for automating switchgear, i.e. for protection, control, measuring and monitoring operations in electrical energy transmission and distribution. IEDs are integrated into the SIMATIC PCS 7 process control system via Ethernet TCP/IP communication with the IEC 61850 transmission protocol for protection and control technology in electrical plants.